2009’s Most Persistent

Malware Threats

Trend Micro, Incorporated

TrendLabsSM
TrendLabs is Trend Micro’s global network of
research, development, and support centers
committed to 24 x 7 threat surveillance, attack
prevention, and timely and seamless solutions
delivery.
A TrendLabs Year-End Threat Roundup I 2009
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

CONTENTS

PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS..................................................................................................3

PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT.............................................................................................................4
DOWNAD/CONFICKER NETWORK WORM........................................................................................5
Where Is DOWNAD Now?............................................................................................................................................5
Why Does the Threat Persist?.....................................................................................................................................6
What Can You Do?.......................................................................................................................................................6
References..................................................................................................................................................................... 7

KOOBFACE SOCIAL NETWORK WORM............................................................................................9

Dissecting the Largest Web 2.0 Botnet.......................................................................................................................9
Why Does the Threat Persist?................................................................................................................................... 10
What Can You Do?...................................................................................................................................................... 11
References................................................................................................................................................................... 11

ZEUS/ZBOT CRIMEWARE............................................................................................................... 13
The Year That Was. ................................................................................................................................................... 13
Why Does the Threat Persist?................................................................................................................................... 14
What Can You Do?..................................................................................................................................................... 15
References................................................................................................................................................................... 16

ROGUE ANTIVIRUS APPLICATIONS.............................................................................................. 17

Why Does the Threat Persist?................................................................................................................................... 19
What Can You Do?.................................................................................................................................................... 20
References................................................................................................................................................................... 20

ZERO-DAY EXPLOITS..................................................................................................................... 23
IE Zero-Day Exploits................................................................................................................................................ 23
Adobe Zero-Day Exploits.......................................................................................................................................... 24
Other Microsoft Zero-Day Vulnerabilities.............................................................................................................. 24
Why Does the Threat Persist?.................................................................................................................................. 25
What Can You Do?.................................................................................................................................................... 26
References................................................................................................................................................................... 26

POSTSCRIPT.................................................................................................................................... 28
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................. 29

2 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

Enterprises are raring to harness the benefits of the Internet’s connectivity and
infrastructure for both core operations and support activities. The generally positive
response toward moving into the cloud, the increase in the use of social networking
platforms for business, and the continuous move toward a mobile and interconnected
workforce gained momentum in 2009.

The risks of conducting business with the use of the Internet became readily apparent as
well. According to reports, 18 percent of the respondents to the “Computer, Crime, and
Security Survey” that reported security incidents in 2009 also experienced at least one
targeted malware attack.

A separate study, the Ponemon/PGP report as reported by CNET News on the cost of a
data breach due to criminal activity pegs loss to business at US$215 per stolen record.
Remarkably, the “criminal activities” in this report now include data-stealing malware and
botnets. In fact, more of these attacks have been reported in 2009 than ever before.

A review of the TrendLabs Malware Blog entries in 2009 likewise calls attention to
recurring themes in the security challenge for users and businesses alike. Cybercriminal
organizations work hard to use old and new online platforms to trick even the more
tech-savvy users into following a malicious link or into opening a malicious file. In the
more insidious kinds of attack that will be discussed later (i.e., a network worm named
DOWNAD), almost no user interaction is required for an attack to spread throughout a
system of interconnected computers.

3 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT

TrendLabs, Trend Micro’s research lab, discusses 2009’s most persistent threats and
presents why users need to be more engaged in keeping their systems secure than ever
before. These five most recurring and ever-present threats effectively challenge even the
more tech-savvy businesses who encounter them either through lack of network security
or of education and appreciation of the severity of threats on the part of employees. At
the end of each discussion, a list of security dos are recommended for large enterprises
and smaller businesses alike.

4 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

DOWNAD/CONFICKER NETWORK WORM

Millions of systems around the world succumbed to the infamous worm, DOWNAD.
Network infections resulted in significant spikes in port 445 traffic, bandwidth issues,
and inaccessible user accounts. A connection between DOWNAD, WALEDAC, and a
FAKEAV has likewise been established with the WORM_DOWNAD.KK variant, making
the equation more complex. Leveraging a Microsoft OS vulnerability and propagating via
network shares, removable drives, and network drives, DOWNAD left an indelible mark
in 2009.

Where Is DOWNAD Now?

According to the The continuous work of the Conficker Working Group shows that while DOWNAD has left
Conficker Working the headlines, the worm remains quite active in the sidelines. Based on available data
Group, while as of January, there remains a considerable number of unique IP addresses connecting
DOWNAD has left to the group’s tracking systems in the first week of 2010 alone. Furthermore, a recent
the headlines, the TrendLabs study shows that of around 100 million compromised IP addresses analyzed,
worm remains 75 percent were identified as consumers while 25 percent were enterprise users. Since
quite active in the a single IP address can actually be connected to multiple machines, the figures used
sidelines. to create the graph below can possibly represent only a fraction of the entire infected
population.

Figure 1. Number of unique IP addresses connected to the Conficker Working Group’s

tracking systems from April 2009 to January 2010

Furthermore, the report released by Akamai on the state of the Internet in the third
quarter of 2009 reveals that there continues to be significant port 445 activity. While
the port is not exclusively used by DOWNAD, high traffic in the said port has been one
of the distinguishing marks of a DOWNAD infection. Furthermore, recent attack traffic
shows that Russia and Brazil now account for 13 percent and 8.6 percent, respectively,
of the traffic, as opposed to the United States (6.9 percent) and China (6.5 percent). If
anything, these numbers show that while there has been a decline in the previous top 2
sources of attack traffic, the concentration of DOWNAD infections only moved to other
parts of the globe.

5 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats
To prevent another DOWNAD at-
tack, users can:
• Identify vulnerable machines and
apply appropriate patches as
soon as they are released
• Use authentic software and OSs
to ensure continued protection
that comes with legal licenses
• Utilize strong passwords to pre-
vent possible dictionary attacks
on user accounts in networks
• Protect removable drives against
worms using the AutoRun feature
• Monitor port 445 activity, as this
remains one of the more visible
DOWNAD infection markers
• Protect systems by using a secu-
rity solution that provides smarter
protection against malicious files
because DOWNAD is primarily a
network worm
6 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
Why Does the Threat Persist?
The DOWNAD network is a very capable platform where a code change could shift
the balance of power. In 2009, DOWNAD variants made their appearance, each one
with almost no similarity in terms of added registry entries. There has likewise been a
consistent increase in the number of system changes triggered by each variant. These
characteristics prodded security researchers to think that the creators of the worm have
been working with a deliberate plan in mind.
It is also important to note that in several cases, all it took was one unpatched system for
the worm to infect an entire network. Unfortunately, a significant number of unpatched
systems remain even today, owing to the proliferation of pirated or unlicensed software
and, in some cases, to inaction on the part of end users. It is thus highly probable that
another massive infection can occur as when apparently as many as 9 million PCs were
infected in a span of only four months.
The same is true for the danger that removable drives pose. A study conducted as early
as 2006 showed how an infected USB can easily start a network infection and a security
compromise. Removable drives likewise made it to the list of most abused infection
vectors in 2008 and continue to be possible infection vectors for the DOWNAD/Conficker
worm.
What Can You Do?
The DOWNAD attack in 2009 has definitely set the stage for cybercriminal activities.
Despite the hype that DOWNAD brought about, however, at its core, the attack was
largely preventable. Trend Micro thus suggests that enterprises and individuals be
proactive in battling the botnet by:
• Identifying vulnerable machines and applying appropriate patches as soon as
they are released. Microsoft’s Windows Update page provides administrators and
users pertinent information on the latest patches available as well as helpful tips,
especially for enterprises.
• Using authentic software and OSs to ensure continued protection that comes with
legal licenses.
• Utilizing strong passwords to prevent possible dictionary attacks on user
accounts in networks. Senior advanced threats researcher Robert McArdle
recommends using three different passwords—one for public sites, another for
laptops or desktops, and a distinct one for email accounts.
• Protecting removable drives against worms using the AutoRun feature. Senior
advanced threats researcher Joey Costoya recommends disabling the AutoPlay
functionality in Windows, which administrators could roll out to the entire network.
Installing the patch effectively disables the AutoRun feature of all media except CD-
and DVD-ROMs to prevent unwanted infections via removable drives.
• Monitoring port 445 activity, as this remains one of the more visible DOWNAD
infection markers
• Protecting systems by using a security solution that provides smarter
protection against malicious files because DOWNAD is primarily a network
worm. Preventing access to compromised websites is likewise important, as peer-
to-peer (P2P) sharing sites continue to be possible malware vectors.
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

References:
• Conficker Working Group. (April 1, 2009). Conficker Working Group. “Home Page.”
http://www.confickerworkinggroup.org/wiki/pmwiki.php/Main/HomePage (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Conficker Working Group. (October 30, 2009). Conficker Working Group.

“Infection Tracking.” http://www.confickerworkinggroup.org/wiki/pmwiki.php/ANY/
InfectionTracking (Retrieved March 2010).

• Dan Raywood. (February 2, 2010). SC Magazine. “Greater Manchester Police Hit

by Conficker from Infected USB That Leaves It Unconnected from Its Network for
Three Days.” http://www.scmagazineuk.com/greater-manchester-police-hit-by-
conficker-from-infected-usb-that-leaves-it-unconnected-from-its-network-for-three-
days/article/162904/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• DarkReading. (June 7, 2006). Security Dark Reading. “Social Engineering,

the USB Way.” http://www.darkreading.com/security/perimeter/showArticle.
jhtml?articleID=208803634 (Retrieved March 2010).

• Det Caraig. (November 4, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “DOWNAD/Conficker

Turns 1 Year.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/downadconficker-turns-1yr/ (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Macky Cruz. (December 7, 2008). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Most Abused Infection
Vector.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/most-abused-infection-vector/ (Retrieved March
2010).

• Microsoft Corporation. (October 23, 2008). Microsoft TechNet. “Microsoft Security

Bulletin MS08-067—Critical: Vulnerability in Server Service Could Allow Remote
Code Execution (958644).” http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/Bulletin/
MS08-067.mspx (Retrieved March 2010).

• Microsoft Corporation. (January 6, 2010). Microsoft Support. “Update to the AutoPlay

Functionality in Windows.” http://support.microsoft.com/kb/971029 (Retrieved March
2010).

• Microsoft Corporation. (2010). Microsoft Windows Update. “Options: Administrator

Options.” http://www.update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/administrators.
aspx?ln=en&IsMu=False (Retrieved March 2010).

• Microsoft Corporation. (2010). Microsoft Windows Update. “Windows Update.” http://

www.update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Robert McArdle. (February 9, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Largest Bulletin

PHP Board Providers Compromised.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/largest-bulletin-
php-board-providers-compromised/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Sumner Lemon. (January 15, 2010). PCWorld. “Conficker Worm Hasn’t Gone Away,
Akamai Says.” http://www.pcworld.com/article/186977/conficker_worm_hasnt_
gone_away_akamai_says.html?tk=rss_news (Retrieved March 2010).

• Trend Micro. Threat Encyclopedia. “Threat Encyclopedia Search Results:

WALEDAC.” http://threatinfo.trendmicro.com/vinfo/virusencyclo/default2.asp?m=q&
virus=waledac&alt=waledac&Sect=SA (Retrieved March 2010).

7 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• Trend Micro. Threat Encyclopedia. “WORM_DOWNAD.KK.” http://threatinfo.

trendmicro.com/vinfo/virusencyclo/default5.asp?VName=WORM_DOWNAD.KK
(Retrieved March 2010).

• Trend Micro. (April 2, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “More DOWNAD/Conficker

Questions After April 1st.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/more-downadconficker-
questions-after-april-1st/ (Retrieved March 2010).

8 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

KOOBFACE SOCIAL NETWORK WORM

Since its first appearance in 2008, KOOBFACE remains the most prominent malware
threat that successfully and continuously propagates via social networking sites. This
may be juxtaposed to the growing popularity of social networking sites among home
users as well as among companies and businesspeople. Nowadays, social networking
sites do not only serve as a medium of communication but also as a marketing and
networking tool.

Senior advanced According to senior advanced threats researcher Ryan Flores, small and medium-sized
threats researcher businesses (SMBs) are at risk because they lack the resources needed for user education
Ryan Flores says and security. “The line between corporate network restrictions and personal use is being
SMBs are at blurred by social networking sites. Employees can access social networking sites on
risk (in terms of corporate networks and may reveal confidential corporate information on their profile
KOOBFACE) because pages whether or not there are corporate restrictions. This poses risks for SMBs as they
they lack the have limited IT staff to implement site restrictions and to conduct user education,” he
resources needed adds. With that, cybercriminals saw another avenue to further proliferate their malicious
for user education deeds.
and security.
Dissecting the Largest Web 2.0 Botnet
The KOOBFACE botnet comprises various component files, each with its own special
function. These components include the KOOBFACE downloader, social network
propagation components, the ad pusher and FAKEAV installer, the completely automated
public Turing test to tell computers and humans apart (CAPTCHA) breaker, data stealer,
Web search hijackers, and rogue domain name system changer, to name some.
KOOBFACE’s structure easily permits the addition of new and updated components.

Figure 2. Sample KOOBFACE spam

Another notable KOOBFACE quality is its use of enhanced social engineering tactics. It
capitalizes on the notion of trust between friends inside social networking sites and the
trend of sharing links and statuses.

9 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats
Around 46 percent
of the respondents
of a Facetime survey
perceived social
networking sites
crucial and of great
value to a company
or business.
10 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
The KOOBFACE infection chain begins with a spammed malicious link together with an
enticing message. Once users click the link and install the KOOBFACE loader component
posing as a video codec, the affected system becomes part of the botnet. The affected
users’ social networking contacts are then spammed with malicious KOOBFACE URLs.
In addition, the affected system can be used as proxy to the botnet by installing its Web
server component, which is responsible for setup.exe binaries and bogus YouTube and
Facebook pages.
On the other hand, KOOBFACE takes advantage of affected users to break CAPTCHAs.
It does this by creating a false sense of panic on the users’ part. Accordingly, the users
must decipher the CAPTCHA image before the given time (3 minutes) expires or their
systems will supposedly shut down. This tactic enabled KOOBFACE to let affected users
do the dirty work of breaking CAPTCHAs. As of October 2009, the United States posted
the highest number of KOOBFACE-infected systems.
Figure 3. Command-and-control (C&C) architecture KOOBFACE adapted after some
domain takedowns
Why Does the Threat Persist?
Social networking sites boomed with the advent of Web 2.0. Entrepreneurs and SMBs
embraced this phenomenon and used it as a tool to drive their business. Around 46
percent of the respondents of a Facetime survey perceived social networking sites
crucial and of great value to a company or business. Clearly, social networking sites are
no longer limited to just staying connected with friends.
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

KOOBFACE’s success, however, was not only a result of its robust malware architecture.
The cybercriminals behind it are fully aware of social networking sites’ efforts to enhance
security and the current countermeasures and initiatives security researchers are coming
up with. For instance, in July 2009, after some C&C domains were taken down, the
KOOBFACE gang changed their botnet’s architecture in such a way that the downloader
component will not directly get commands from KOOBFACE C&C domains but do so
from compromised websites acting as proxy C&C servers. This new structure made the
botnet resilient to C&C domain takedowns.

When Facebook implemented a URL filtering service that blocked known spam URLs,
KOOBFACE responded by updating its components with the creation of a GCHECK
component. This component first tested if a certain malicious URL spammed by
KOOBFACE has already been blocked or not. Along with the update, the KOOBFACE
gang also sent a message to Trend Micro security researchers last Christmas, saying
they read their research papers. Clearly, the cybercriminals behind the botnet stayed up-
to-date with the latest news and researches on their malicious creation.

What Can You Do?

Given these facts, file detection alone cannot overcome a persistent threat like
KOOBFACE. Users also need multilayered protection that breaks the infection chain by
blocking spammed malicious URLs. This, in turn stops the execution of the downloader
component (setup.exe) that eventually leads to the download of other KOOBFACE
components.

Senior advanced According to senior advanced threats researcher Jonell Baltazar, threats that propagate
threats researcher via social networking sites like KOOBFACE can be mitigated with user education.
Jonell Baltazar “Without proper user education and understanding of current Web threats, especially in
believes threats that social networking sites, these will continue to act as attack vectors to enterprises and
propagate via social SMBs. Sufficient know-how will lead to better IT security policies and best practices for
networking sites like enterprises and SMBs’ IT networks,” he adds.
KOOBFACE can be
Trend Micro senior advanced threats researcher David Sancho also pointed out some
mitigated with user
useful best practices to stay secure from online threats while enjoying the benefits of
education.
social networking in the white paper, “Security Guide to Social Networks.”

References:
• David Sancho. (August 2009). TrendWatch. “Security Guide to Social Networks.”
http://us.trendmicro.com/imperia/md/content/us/trendwatch/researchandanalysis/
security_guide_to_social_networks.pdf (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jonell Baltazar, Joey Costoya, and Ryan Flores. (July 2009). TrendWatch. “The Real
Face of KOOBFACE: The Largest Web 2.0 Botnet Explained.” http://us.trendmicro.
com/imperia/md/content/us/trendwatch/researchandanalysis/the_real_face_of_
koobface_jul2009.pdf (Retrieved March 2010).
• Robert McArdle. (December 31, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “From KOOBFACE
with Love.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/from-koobface-with-love-2/ (Retrieved March
2010).

• Ryan Flores. (October 7, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “8 Things You Probably
Didn’t Know About KOOBFACE.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/8-things-you-probably-
didn%E2%80%99t-know-about-koobface/ (Retrieved March 2010).

11 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• Sarah Perez. (July 2, 2009). Read Write Web. “A Growing Acceptance of Social
Networking in the Workplace.” http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/a_growing_
acceptance_of_social_networking_in_the_w.php (Retrieved March 2010).

• Wikimedia Foundation Inc. (March 10, 2010). Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia.
“CAPTCHA.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CAPTCHA (Retrieved March 2010).

12 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

ZEUS/ZBOT CRIMEWARE
ZeuS Trojans are crimeware detected by Trend Micro as variants of the ZBOT family of
malware. These Trojans typically arrive via spammed messages and steal information
from infected systems. Once infected, systems become part of one of many networks
of systems already compromised by ZeuS Trojans. These botnets are controlled by
cybercriminals for information theft for purposes of conducting wire fraud.

The Year That Was

Figure 4. Six of the most notable ZBOT-related stories Trend Micro documented
in 2009

By the third By the third quarter of last year, Trend Micro already detected roughly 2,800 variants
quarter of last from this malware family and the number is still increasing! To date, we have recorded
year, Trend Micro and distinguished eight ZBOT generations based on differences in their dropped copies,
already detected names of created folders, dropped file names, created mutexes, and URLs where a copy
roughly 2,800 of itself and its components can be downloaded from.
ZBOT variants and
the number is still
increasing.

13 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats
ZeuS achieved notoriety due to
the following reasons:
• File compression, which makes
ZBOT variants difficult to analyze
• Rootkit capabilities, which
allow ZBOT variants to hide
themselves and their malicious
routines from users
• Varying social engineering tech-
niques that target a wide range of
firms and organizations and use
a variety of baits
• Effective business model that
works
• Established network of money
mules that act as the cyber-
criminals’ hands and feet above
ground
14 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
Why Does the Threat Persist?
In the second half of 2009, Trend Micro prevented over 9 million infection attempts by
ZBOT variants. However, these attacks continue to persist due to the following reasons:
• File compression. ZBOT variants are often compressed or packed usually with
Ultimate Packer for eXecutables (UPX), a common type of compression software
that is capable of encrypting actual .EXE application code. This, in effect, makes
the application difficult to analyze. Earlier generations of ZBOT use UPX. However,
variants from the new generation have been found to be compressed using other
packers, if not unknown types, making the ordeal more difficult than it already is.
• Rootkit capabilities. ZBOT variants perform a number of stealth routines in order
to hide themselves from users. They inject themselves into SVCHOST.EXE and
WINLOGON.EXE, two of the many important Windows OS components that both
run at startup and can have several instances running on a system at the same time.
Since these are system files, they are not easily terminated using Task Manager.
Another stealth tactic ZBOT variants employ is that they directly hook their functions
to NTOSKRNL.EXE, another important Windows process. Hooking to this process
allows them to hide all the files and folders they create from users’ normal view.
• Varying social engineering techniques. It has been proven time and again that
ZeuS has been using targeted, timely, and ever-changing social engineering ploys.
From banks to social networking sites and patch updates to news on pop stars,
ZeuS had it covered in 2009. Using diverse methods to bait users, the ZeuS botnet
and the cybercriminals behind it only have three objectives in mind—to steal, to
make money, and to steal some more.
• Effective business model. The organized cybercriminal group behind ZeuS uses
a business model that ultimately works. Because of this, other groups of organized
cybercriminals—professional and amateurs alike—use ZeuS to extort money from
unknowing users.
• Established network of money mules. In line with organized cybercriminal
activities, these underground groups have been found to have a network of money
mules that act as their hands and feet above ground. Cybercriminals establish their
mule networks by putting up bogus work-from home scams with innocent users
having no way of knowing. What these mules do is move money from victims’
accounts to the organized cybercriminals’ accounts. Money mules basically shield
cybercriminals from being identified, attributed, and eventually prosecuted for their
malicious deeds. Most of the time, these mules take the fall for the real cybercriminals.
Even worse, however, is the fact that these mules are not even aware that they are
being used this way. Despite being dispensable, however, they are too important to
cybercriminals that they would not be easily abandoned. We have reason to believe
that these cybercriminals simply adjust their tactics and improve ZeuS to thwart off
security companies and law enforcement agencies all together.
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats
To protect systems from ZBOT
infection via spam and phishing
email messages, enterprises can:
• Keep their PCs and servers
current with the latest software
updates and patches
• Employ multilayered defense
to secure PCs, servers, and
networks
• Establish data protection policies
and educate employees
15 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
What Can You Do?
To protect systems from the current and future ZeuS-related threats, Trend Micro
advises users to remain vigilant and to regularly update applications. Downloading the
GeneriClean tool (TSC_GENCLEAN), which rids systems of all TSPY_ZBOT variants,
also helps. Enterprises can keep their networks safe by:
• Keeping PCs and servers current with the latest software updates and patches.
Minimize exposure to vulnerabilities by applying the latest security updates and
patches to software programs and OSs. Enable automatic updates, if possible.
• Employing multilayered defense to secure PCs, servers, and networks
• Blocking threats at the gateway before they reach the network with a
comprehensive security solution that includes URL filtering and cloud-based
protection
• Protecting endpoints—desktops, laptops, servers, and storage appliances—on
and off the network
• Establishing data protection policies and educating employees
• Making sure employees are aware of spam and how they can help prevent
these from spreading. The following are some useful tips for employees:
• Always check who the email sender is. If they know the people who
sent the email message, check if they really did send the message. It will,
however, be best to move suspicious-looking emails to spam inboxes.
• Carefully read through email messages. Watch out for misspellings,
grammatical lapses, and/or garbage characters in the message body. This
is a good technique to practice, especially when a legitimate-looking email
message from a company, regardless of popularity, ends up in their inboxes.
• Do not click embedded links. Companies such as Microsoft will never send
email messages that asks users to download digital certificates, to update
their login credentials, or to install software into their systems. Make this a
rule of thumb—go directly to the site’s home page and log in or download
from there.
• Check attachments’ extension names. Some email messages may contain
compressed file attachments that appear harmless such as a Microsoft Word
document file. Steer clear from attachments with double extension names
and executable files in general.
• Ensuring that employees never provide personal or confidential information in
response to unsolicited email or IM requests
Non-Trend Micro product users can also stay protected from ZBOT infections with the
aid of the following free tools:
• Web Protection Add-On is a lightweight add-on solution designed to proactively
protect computers against Web threats and bot infiltration that can work alongside
existing desktop protection solutions.
• eMail ID is a browser plug-in that helps identify legitimate email messages in users’
inboxes. It helps users avoid opening and acting on phishing messages attempting
to spoof real companies.
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• HouseCall is Trend Micro’s highly popular and capable on-demand scanner that
identifies and removes viruses, Trojans, worms, unwanted browser plug-ins, and
other malware.

References:
• Aljerro Gabon. (April 30, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Invoice Spam Finds
New Target: WorldPay.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/invoice-spam-finds-new-target-
worldpay/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Aljerro Gabon. (July 2, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Spam Speculates Michael
Jackson’s Murder.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/spam-speculates-michael-jacksons-
murder/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Aljerro Gabon. (October 16, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “ZBOT Spam
Campaign Continues.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/zbot-spam-campaign-continues/
(Retrieved March 2010).

• Argie Gallego. (June 22, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “‘Critical Update” Leads to
Critical Info Theft.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/critical-update-leads-to-critical-info-
theft/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Mary Bagtas. (May 12, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Spoofed Western Union
Mail Carries Info Stealer.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/spoofed-western-union-mail-
carries-info-stealer/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Roderick Ordoñez. (November 15, 2007). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Storm Brews
over Geocities.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/storm-brews-over-geocities/ (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Trend Micro. (2010). Threat Encyclopedia. “TROJ_ZBOT.BJ.” http://threatinfo.

trendmicro.com/vinfo/virusencyclo/default5.asp?VName=TROJ_ZBOT.BJ
(Retrieved March 2009).

• Verna Sagum. (November 7, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Are You Being
(Facebook) Phished?” http://blog.trendmicro.com/are-you-being-facebook-phished/
(Retrieved March 2010).

16 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

ROGUE ANTIVIRUS APPLICATIONS

FAKEAVs’ 2009 saw the continued reign of FAKEAV with several new variants appearing every
prevalence has month. Their prevalence has made them a familiar nuisance, which may largely be due
made them a to their piggybacking on almost all known forms of malware delivery—from spam and
familiar nuisance. fake codecs to poisoned search engine optimization (SEO) results and SQL injections.

Posting Date Post Title Infection Vector

Bogus LinkedIn Profiles Harbor
January 5 Malicious links in LinkedIn
Malicious Content
Cybercrooks Handing Out Malware
February 6 Flyers and ads
Flyers
Crack Sites Distribute VIRUX and Accessing warez and
March 2
FAKEAV crack sites
Rotten Eggs: An Easter Malware
April 12 SEO poisoning
Campaign
The DOWNAD/Conficker Jigsaw Downloaded by other
April 14
Puzzle malware
May 11 Fake Antivirus Targets Brazil Spam
Air France Flight 447 Search Results
June 4 SEO poisoning
Lead to Rogue Antivirus
Reconfigure Your Outlook with
June 7 Spam
Malware
Malvertisements in
June 24 Med Spam Litters Silverlight Forums
Silverlight forums
Blackhat SEO Quick to Abuse
June 25 SEO poisoning
Farrah Fawcett Death
“Solar Eclipse 2009 in America”
July 23 SEO poisoning
Leads to FAKEAV
Rogue Antivirus Terminates .EXE
July 26 Ransomware
Files
Malicious Twitter Posts Get More
July 27 Malicious links in Twitter
Personal
Cory Aquino’s Death Used to Spread
August 3 SEO poisoning
Another FAKEAV
September 10 FAKEAV for 9/11 SEO poisoning
Bogus Profile in LinkedIn Leads to
September 14 Bogus LinkedIn profiles
FAKEAV
Malvertisements in NYTimes.com Malvertisements in
September 15
Lead to FAKEAV NYTimes.com
Pick Your Poison: KOOBFACE or Malicious links in
September 17
FAKEAV? Facebook
Blackhat SEO and FAKEAV: A
September 22 SEO poisoning
Dangerous Tandem
Bogus Sponsored Link Leads to Sponsored links in Bing
September 24
FAKEAV and AltaVista
Several Compromised Thai Sites Compromised legitimate
September 28
Serve Malware sites

17 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

Posting Date Post Title Infection Vector

September 29 Tropical Storm Leads to FAKEAV SEO poisoning
FAKEAV Uses Conficker Worm as
October 21 Spam
Bait
FAKEAV Goes Open Source… or Uses ClamAV components
October 23
Not? to appear legitimate
October 24 Spoofed Contract Carries Malware Spam
Fake Facebook Password
October 28 Spam
Notification Leads to Malware
Pacquiao Vs. Cotto Fight Live
November 16 SEO poisoning
Stream Leads to FAKEAV
Meteor Shower and New Moon Lead
November 18 SEO poisoning
to FAKEAV
November 19 Fake Blogs Lead to FAKEAV SEO poisoning
News on Brittany Murphy’s Death
December 21 SEO poisoning
Lead to FAKEAV
PH: Mayon Volcano Eruption Spews
December 24 SEO poisoning
Out SEO Attack
Malicious JavaScript Infects Injected code into PHP
December 31
Websites servers

Table 1. FAKEAV-related extortion scams documented in the TrendLabs Malware Blog

in 2009

Figure 5. Behaviors FAKEAV variants normally exhibit

The most prominent FAKEAV attacks in 2008 made use of blue screens and misleading
screensavers to incite fear among victims. However, this behavior has not been observed
in 2009, as variants made more use of pop-up windows and balloon tray messages to
urge users to buy bogus antivirus products. Such routines heavily relied on user panic
to force users to shell out cash to rid their systems of supposed infections. FAKEAVs’
legitimate look and feel add credibility to the malicious wares. Their behaviors varied per
variant. Some acted as downloaders of more malware—other variants included—while
some attempted to terminate security-related processes.

FAKEAVs’ behaviors The main motive behind peddling FAKEAV basically remained the same though—for
varied per variant financial gain. A successful attack tricked users into purchasing rogue software but apart
but their main from losing money, perpetrators stole credit card credentials as well, which resulted in
motive remained the double gains for the FAKEAV creators.
same—to gain profit.

18 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

Why Does the Threat Persist?

FAKEAV variants usually exhibit similar routines, especially as they all lead to one
thing—profiting from user naivete. However, cybercriminals used various and sometimes
notable methods and social engineering techniques to lure users into installing the rogue
software.

Whereas earlier generations of FAKEAV variants arrived via spam and drive-by downloads
to trick users, the trend is now leaning toward poisoning search results. This can be
considered a form of stealth attack, as the user is more likely to click a link returned by
a trusted search engine. As such, appearing as a link in a search result makes the link
appear harmless. The same logic applies to sites compromised to serve FAKEAV. There
have been incidents where malvertisements on legitimate, even mainstream, high-traffic
sites, led to FAKEAV.

FAKEAV variants in 2009 also rode on the popularity of social networking sites. Names of
popular sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn were used in spammed messages
to direct users to the download and installation of FAKEAV. The sites themselves were
not excluded from becoming infection vectors. Spammed messages and fake profiles
containing links that led to FAKEAV installations were also found circulating within the
said social networking sites.

Arguably, FAKEAVs’ greatest features include their ability to appear legitimate and to
be the final payloads of spammed messages and links in social networking sites. Other
routines observed in 2009 that added an authentic feel to notable FAKEAV attacks
included the following:

• Use of professional-looking interfaces. Some variants even imitated the design

of well-known legitimate antivirus software. They are also known for adopting
professional-sounding names such as Antivirus 2008.

• Use of standard Windows graphical user interface (GUI) elements. These

fool users into thinking that the messages they receive are official Windows error
messages.

• Use of professional-looking websites to accept payment. FAKEAV variants

likewise used professional-looking sites that contained ample information about
the bogus products to accept payment. These used formal wording. Some even
featured mock testimonials, displayed the “lock” symbol, and used the https prefix,
essentially telling users they were “secure.”

• Addition of actual files to users’ systems. Some variants added garbage files
to supposed infected systems to further convince users of infections. Some even
bundled legitimate antivirus software files with their FAKEAV applications.

Senior advanced Finally, as senior advanced threats researcher Feike Hacquebord says, “Selling FAKEAV
threats researcher is highly profitable for cybercriminal gangs. A lot of victims pay up to US$100 for software
Feike Hacquebord that cannot detect real threats. FAKEAV affiliates and resellers receive extremely high
says, “Selling provisions so this threat will not go away soon. Cybercriminal gangs that push FAKEAV
FAKEAV is highly are often also involved in other cybercrimes like large-scale click-fraud schemes and the
profitable for spread of Trojans. They even have support departments that can be reached via phone
cybercriminal and/or email though their main goal is not to serve FAKEAV customers but to create a
gangs... so this façade for their business.”
threat will not go
away soon.”

19 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

What Can You Do?

FAKEAV applications may look legitimate but none of their routines tell the actual truth
about users’ systems. They use fraudulent claims to scare users into believing their
systems are infected. This is why some FAKEAV variants are classified as “scareware”
or “ransomware” even though their routines are distinct enough to merit their own
classification. FAKEAV variants constantly evolve to keep up with the latest trends, each
time becoming more sophisticated.

Ultimately, Ultimately, enterprises are responsible for ensuring that their systems do not fall prey to
enterprises are FAKEAV attacks. They can do this by keeping the following best practices in mind:
responsible for • Keep PCs and servers current with the latest software updates and patches.
ensuring that their Minimize exposure to vulnerabilities by applying the latest security updates and
systems do not fall patches to software programs and OSs. Enable automatic updates, if possible.
prey to FAKEAV
attacks. • Employ multilayered defense to secure PCs, servers, and networks.

• Block threats at the gateway before they reach the network with a comprehensive
security solution that includes URL filtering and cloud-based protection.

• Protect endpoints—desktops, laptops, servers, and storage appliances—on

and off the network.

Do not panic when presented with warnings of system infection. Use an effective security
solution to run a full system scan. In addition, it is not wise to purchase software that
suddenly turn up in your machine. If in doubt, confirm the product’s authenticity first. If
your system does not have security software installed, you may use HouseCall, Trend
Micro’s highly popular and capable on-demand scanner for identifying and removing
viruses, Trojans, worms, unwanted browser plug-ins, and other malware can also help.
eMail ID, a browser plug-in, can also help protect systems by identifying legitimate email
messages in users’ inboxes. This helps users avoid opening and acting on phishing
messages attempting to spoof real companies.

References:
• Ailene Dela Rosa. (June 7, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Reconfigure Your
Outlook with Malware.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/reconfigure-your-outlook-with-
malware/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Bernadette Irinco. (September 28, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Several

Compromised Thai Sites Serve Malware.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/several-
compromised-thai-sites-serve-malware/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Bernadette Irinco. (December 31, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Malicious

JavaScript Infects Websites.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/malicious-javascript-
infects-websites/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Brain Krebs. (March 24, 2010). Krebs on Security: In-Depth Security News and
Investigation. “AV Profit: Rogue AV + Zeus = $.” http://www.krebsonsecurity.
com/2010/03/avprofit-rogue-av-zeus/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• David Sancho. (October 23, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “FAKEAV

Goes Open Source… or Not?” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fakeav-goes-open-
source%E2%80%A6-or-not/ (Retrieved March 2010).

20 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• Det Caraig. (August 3, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Cory Aquino’s Death Used
to Spread Another FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/cory-aquino%E2%80%99s-
death-used-to-spread-another-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Det Caraig. (December 21, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “News on Brittany
Murphy’s Death Lead to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/news-on-brittany-
murphy%E2%80%99s-death-lead-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Erika Mendoza. (July 26, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Rogue Antivirus
Terminates .EXE Files.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/rogue-antivirus-terminates-exe-
files/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Erika Mendoza. (September 24, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Bogus Sponsored
Link Leads to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/bogus-sponsored-link-leads-to-
fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• Erika Mendoza. (November 18, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Meteor Shower
and New Moon Lead to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/meteor-shower-and-
new-moon-lead-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jake Soriano. (March 2, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Crack Sites Distribute
VIRUX and FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/crack-sites-distribute-virux-and-
fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jake Soriano. (April 12, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Rotten Eggs: An Easter
Malware Campaign.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/rotten-eggs-an-easter-malware-
campaign/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jessa De La Torre. (September 10, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “FAKEAV for
9/11.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fakeav-for-september-11/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jessa De La Torre. (September 22, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Blackhat SEO
and FAKEAV: A Dangerous Tandem.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/blackhat-seo-and-
fakeav-a-dangerous-tandem/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jessa De La Torre. (September 29, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Tropical Storm
Leads to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/tropical-storm-leads-to-fakeav/
(Retrieved March 2010).

• Jessa De La Torre. (November 16, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Pacquiao Vs.
Cotto Fight Live Stream Leads to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/pacquiao-
cotto-fight-live-stream-leads-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• JM Hipolito. (February 6, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Cybercrooks Handing

Out Malware Flyers.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/cybercrooks-handing-out-malware-
flyers/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• JM Hipolito. (June 4, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Air France Flight 447 Search
Results Lead to Rogue Antivirus.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/search-results-for-air-
france-flight-447-lead-to-rogue-antivirus/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• JM Hipolito. (July 27, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Malicious Twitter Posts
Get More Personal.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/malicious-twitter-posts-get-more-
personal/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• JM Hipolito. (September 15, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Malvertisements in

NYTimes.com Lead to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/malvertisements-in-
nytimes-com-lead-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

21 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• Jonathan Leopando. (November 19, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Fake Blogs
Lead to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fake-blogs-lead-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Jonell Baltazar. (September 17, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Pick Your Poison:
KOOBFACE or FAKEAV?” http://blog.trendmicro.com/pick-your-poison-koobface-
or-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Joseph Pacamarra. (December 24, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “PH: Mayon
Volcano Eruption Spews Out SEO Attack.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/ph-mayon-
volcano-eruption-spews-out-seo-attack/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Macky Cruz. (January 5, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Bogus LinkedIn Profiles
Harbor Malicious Content.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/bogus-linkedin-profiles-
harbor-malicious-content/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• Macky Cruz. (June 25, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Blackhat SEO Quick to
Abuse Farrah Fawcett Death.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/blackhat-seo-quick-to-
abuse-farrah-fawcett-death/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Macky Cruz. (September 14, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Bogus Profile in
LinkedIn Leads to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/bogus-profile-in-linkedin-
leads-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Maria Alarcon. (October 28, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Fake Facebook
Password Notification Leads to Malware.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fake-facebook-
password-notification-leads-to-malware/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Maydalene Salvador. (October 24, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Spoofed

Contract Carries Malware.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/spoofed-contract-carries-
malware/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Paul Ferguson and Ivan Macalintal. (April 14, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog.
“The DOWNAD/Conficker Jigsaw Puzzle.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/the-
downadconficker-jigsaw-puzzle/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Robby Dapiosen. (October 21, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “FAKEAV Uses
Conficker Worm as Bait.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fakeav-uses-conficker-worm-
as-bait/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Roderick Ordoñez. (May 11, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Fake Antivirus
Targets Brazil.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/fake-antivirus-targets-brazil/ (Retrieved
March 2010).

• Roland Dela Paz. (July 23, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “‘Solar Eclipse 2009
in America’ Leads to FAKEAV.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/solar-eclipse-2009-in-
america-leads-to-fakeav/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Ryan Flores. (June 24, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Med Spam Litters
Silverlight Forums.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/med-spam-litters-silverlight-forums/
(Retrieved March 2010).

• Wikimedia Foundation Inc. (March 11, 2010). Wikipedia. “Sandbox.” http://

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandbox_%28computer_security%29 (Retrieved March
2010).

22 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

ZERO-DAY EXPLOITS
All software has All software has vulnerabilities though some are more likely to be exploited than others.
vulnerabilities, some Cybercriminals usually target unpatched or unreported vulnerabilities that can affect a
are just more likely larger number of systems. While there were several zero-day exploits in 2009, the most
to be exploited than notable ones targeted IE and Adobe Acrobat.
others.
IE Zero-Day Exploits

Figure 6. Typical exploit scenario and zero-day attacks

• In February, a critical vulnerability in IE 7 arose from the browser’s improper handling

of errors, which allowed remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected
systems. A spammed malicious .DOC file containing an ActiveX object automatically
accessed a site rigged with a malicious .HTML file. This file exploited the CVE-
2009-0075 vulnerability, which downloaded a backdoor detected as BKDR_AGENT.
XZMS, which then installed a .DLL file that had information-stealing capabilities.

Figure 7. Sample IE zero-day exploit infection chain

23 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• In July, Microsoft pushed several out-of-band patches for IE out in relation to a

zero-day exploit revealed earlier in the month. It appeared that the underlying
vulnerability was not fixed when independent security researchers discovered the
flaw. Microsoft, however, preempted the exploitation of the possible issue by taking
the highly unusual step of releasing an out-of-band patch.

Acrobat and Adobe Zero-Day Exploits

Reader were two
of cybercriminals’ • In February, specially crafted .PDF files were found to cause system crashes that
favorite Adobe originated from Adobe Reader 9.1 and Acrobat 9.1 but not before they dropped
software malicious files onto affected systems. The exact malware dropped varied but
vulnerability targets could include backdoors and other software exploits. These spread the same way
in 2009. normal .PDF files were distributed, either as email attachments or downloaded from
websites.

• In April, a Adobe Acrobat and Reader getIcon() vulnerability was exploited. Adobe
Reader and Acrobat 9.1 and 7.1.1 updates resolved this issue, which turned out to
be an input validation issue in a JavaScript method that could potentially lead to
remote code execution.

• In July, a vulnerability was discovered in Adobe Reader 9.1.2 and Flash Player 9 and
10. The exploits used a technique known as heap spraying. Once a user opened a
specially crafted .PDF file, two executable binaries were dropped and executed on
their systems.

• In December, a vulnerability in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 9.2 was exploited. This
vulnerability (CVE-2009-4324) could cause a system to crash and potentially allow
an attacker to take control of an affected system. A patch was subsequently released
a month after.

Other Microsoft Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

• In May, a vulnerability in Microsoft PowerPoint was discovered, which could allow
remote code execution if users opened a specially crafted .PPT file.

• In June, vulnerabilities were discovered in Microsoft Internet Information Services

(IIS), which could allow elevation of privilege. Notably, Microsoft IIS was again
issued a patch for a separate vulnerability (MS09-053) in October.

• October also saw the release of a patch for a zero-day vulnerability in Server
Message Block Version 2 (SMBv2). The most severe of the vulnerabilities could
allow remote code execution if an attacker sent a specially crafted Server Message
Block packet to a computer running the Server service.

• One month after its release in October 2009, a zero-day vulnerability was also
reported for Microsoft’s latest OS, Windows 7. The said vulnerability could be used
by an attacker to remotely crash infected computers.

24 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

Why Does the Threat Persist?

Given Adobe Given Adobe and Microsoft’s popularity, exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities in their
and Microsoft’s applications has the potential to affect a very large user base, especially since some
popularity, of their most popular applications are cross-platform. Exploiting a vulnerability in very
exploiting zero-day popular applications required minimal user interaction (e.g., clicking a link). Systems can
vulnerabilities in remain vulnerable years after a patch is released because it was never applied. Zero-day
their applications vulnerabilities also attracted cybercriminals because they could take advantage of these
has the ability to and exploit a large number of systems before vendors could release patches.
affect a very large Trend Micro researcher, Rajiv Motwani, also outlined the following reasons why software
user base. vulnerabilities continue to persist:

• Nonavailability of a centralized automatic update system for all applications

installed on a computer. Many applications are not patched given the fact that the
main objective of each common user is to efficiently use his/her computer and not to
protect it. Patching systems is ideally a full-time job in every organization and some
people should be dedicated for that purpose.

• Each vendor has its own patch release cycle. The amount of time it takes to patch
a vulnerability also varies from organization to organization. Hence, it is possible
that vendors know that vulnerabilities exist in their software for months or years
before they are actually patched. All the while, systems with these software remain
vulnerable to threats.

• Patches require a lot of testing in terms of performance, stability, and

compatibility before they can be rolled out in a phased manner. Hence, patching
is likely to be delayed given the possible impact these may have. In addition, on
critical servers, restarting a server once a patch is installed may also become an
issue.

• Use of legacy software even after their end of life. Upgrading software is risky and
requires a major investment. As such, enterprises just accept rather than mitigate or
compensate for risks.

• Lack of information about updates. Several software do not issue update

notifications. Unless customers go to vendors’ websites, they will not know about
newer versions, which could have fixes for several vulnerabilities.
• Lack of user knowledge about the criticality of vulnerabilities or potential
exploit outcomes. Customers are usually unaware of the impact of not patching
their systems. User machines become part of botnets without their knowledge. In
this regard, user training is necessary.

• Perception that traditional antivirus software protects against all kinds of

threat. This perception is pretty common but an antivirus solution is only part of a
security solution.

• Availability of malicious patches. If users have been tricked into applying a

malicious patch before, they may be hesitant to patch their systems again. It
becomes a trust issue—who can users trust and who can they not?

25 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats
To prevent system vulnerabilities
from being exploited, users can:
• Use updated versions of installed
security products
• Educate users to be careful of
links, files, and data on social
networking sites and IMs
• Educate users to be careful of
specially crafted attachments to
unsolicited email messages
• Verify the senders of suspicious-
looking email messages
• Check the legitimacy of links
26 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
What Can You Do?
To prevent system vulnerabilities from being exploited, users can do the following:
• Use updated versions of installed security products. Ensure that all definitions
are up-to-date at all times. As much as possible, keep software updated with the
latest patches. Users should also stay up-to-date with the latest news regarding the
applications installed in their systems.
• Educate users to be careful with links, files, and data on social networking
sites and instant messages (IMs). A lot of exploits affect systems via malicious
links that lurk in social networking sites and IMs.
• Educate users to be careful of specially crafted attachments to unsolicited
email messages. Likewise, browser exploits may be activated through malicious
links that lurk in the Web via blackhat SEO or embedded in spammed messages.
• If an email messages seems suspicious, verify if the sender really did send an
it with an attachment.
• Links can also be checked by inspecting the browser’s status bar. Note,
however, that some links can be hidden. As a general rule, try to avoid links
presented by suspicious-looking websites.
Business users can protect themselves from vulnerability exploits by using Trend Micro
Deep Security and OfficeScan with the Intrusion Defense Firewall (IDF) plug-in. Home
users who do not have security solutions installed can also avail of free tools like Web
Protection Add-On, which can minimize the occurrence of exploits by blocking access
to sites that host malicious exploits, and eMail ID, which helps users determine the
trustworthiness of the messages they receive via email.
References:
• Ailene Dela Rosa. (May 14, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “CVE-2009-0556
Vulnerability Patched.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/cve-2009-0556-vulnerability-
patched/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• CVE. “CVE-2009-0075.” http://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.
cgi?name=CVE-2009-0075 (Retrieved March 2010).
• Det Caraig. (June 9, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “June 2009 Microsoft and
Adobe Security Updates.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/june-2009-microsoft-and-
adobe-security-updates/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• Jake Soriano. (February 17, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Another Exploit
Targets IE 7 Bug.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/another-exploit-targets-ie7-bug/
(Retrieved March 2010).
• Jessa De La Torre. (July 24, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Another Day, a New
Zero-Day Exploit for Adobe.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/another-day-a-new-zero-
day-exploit-for-adobe/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• JJ Reyes. (April 9, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Adobe Acrobat/Reader
getIcon() Vuln Exploit in the Wild.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/adobe-acrobatreader-
geticon-vuln-exploit-in-the-wild/ (Retrieved March 2010).
 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

• JM Hipolito. (October 14, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “October Patch Tuesday:
MS Releases 13 Security Updates.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/microsoft-releases-
13-security-updates-for-october-patch-tuesday/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jonathan Leopando. (February 20, 2010). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “Portable

Document Format or Portable Malware Format?” http://blog.trendmicro.com/
portable-document-format-or-portable-malware-format/ (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jonathan Leopando. (November 12, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “New

SMB Zero-Day Exploit?” http://blog.trendmicro.com/new-smb-zero-day-exploit/
(Retrieved March 2010).

• Roland Dela Paz. (December 16, 2009). TrendLabs Malware Blog. “New Adobe
Zero-Day Vulnerability Again.” http://blog.trendmicro.com/new-adobe-zero-day-
vulnerability-again/ (Retrieved March 2010).
• Trend Micro. (2010). Threat Encyclopedia. “BKDR_AGENT.XZMS.” http://threatinfo.
trendmicro.com/vinfo/virusencyclo/default5.asp?vname=BKDR_AGENT.XZMS
(Retrieved March 2010).

27 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

POSTSCRIPT
Several other major attacks in 2009 deserve attention, including the yearlong and
still ongoing infestation of compromised websites that redirect to malicious domains.
Companies need to study all their external portals and to perform vulnerability testing
for any interactive website to avoid SQL injections or cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.
In addition, given that the persistence of one of the more notable mass compromises
dubbed as “Gumblar” was due to the use of stolen File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
credentials to infiltrate a website’s back end, companies need to require and implement
a strict password-creation and -renewal policy for all portals. In fact, companies should
reconsider using FTP because network snooping and Domain Name System (DNS)
and Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) exploits can easily capture FTP-related user
credentials even when both the client and server are not compromised.

The persistent threats outlined in this report all arrive via different infection vectors—
unpatched vulnerabilities, unsolicited email messages, and malicious URLs—wherein
by the time a binary related to a cybercriminal attack is detected, it is often already too
late. In the end, a single-pronged protection strategy is no longer reasonable. Large
enterprises and SMBs should trace all possible entry points of malware attacks and data
breaches and install equivalent safeguards, monitoring systems, and security software to
cover as many bases as possible from the gateway down to the various endpoint devices
and systems.

Trend Micro™ Smart Protection Network™ infrastructure delivers security that is

smarter than conventional approaches. Leveraged across Trend Micro’s solutions and
services, Smart Protection Network is a cloud-client content security infrastructure that
automatically blocks threats before they reach you. A global network of threat intelligence
sensors correlates with email, Web, and file reputation technologies 24 x 7 to provide
comprehensive protection against threats. As the sophistication of threats, volume of
attacks, and number of endpoints rapidly grow, the need for lightweight, comprehensive,
and immediate threat intelligence in the cloud is critical to overall protection against data
breaches, damage to business reputation, and loss of productivity. The following free
tools also help protect computers from these threats:

• eMail ID: This browser plug-in helps users identify legitimate email messages
in their inboxes. It uses a two-step check to verify the authenticity of messages
from hundreds of major companies then displays results in the “from” area so that
users will know what is real. This helps them avoid opening and acting on phishing
messages attempting to spoof real companies.

• HiJackThis: This generates an in-depth report of registry and file settings from
users’ computers. It does not separate safe from unsafe settings in its scan results,
giving users the ability to selectively remove items from their machines. In addition
to its scan-and-remove capability, it also comes with several useful tools to manually
remove malware from infected computers.

• HouseCall: This is a capable on-demand scanner users can use to identify and
remove viruses, Trojans, worms, unwanted browser plug-ins, and other malware
from affected systems.

• Web Protection Add-On: This is a lightweight add-on solution that can work
alongside users’ existing desktop protection. It was designed to proactively protect
computers against Web threats and bot infiltration.

28 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS

 2009’s Most Persistent Malware Threats

REFERENCES
• Elinor Mills. (January 25, 2010). cnet news. “Survey: Data Breaches from Malicious
Attacks Doubled Last Year.” http://news.cnet.com/8301-27080_3-10440220-245.ht
ml?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20 (Retrieved March 2010).

• Frank Gens. (January 5, 2010). IDC eXchange. “IDC Survey: What IT Is Likely to
Move to the Cloud?” http://blogs.idc.com/ie/?p=843 (Retrieved March 2010).

• iPass Inc. (2010). “The iPass Mobile Workforce Report: Understanding Enterprise
Mobility Trends and Mobile Usage.” http://www3.ipass.com/wp-content/
uploads/2010/02/Mobile-Workforce-Report-22510.pdf (Retrieved March 2010).

• Jon Brodkin. (January 7, 2010). NetworkWorld. “Facebook, Twitter Becoming

Business Tools, but CIOs Remain Wary.” http://www.networkworld.com/
news/2010/010710-facebook-twitter-business-tools.html (Retrieved March 2010).
• Tim Wilson. (September 11, 2007). Security Dark Reading. “Annual CSI Study: Cost
of Cybercrime Is Skyrocketing.” http://www.darkreading.com/security/perimeter/
showArticle.jhtml?articleID=208804727 (Retrieved March 2010).

TREND MICRO™ TREND MICRO INC.

10101 N. De Anza Blvd.
Trend Micro Incorporated is a pioneer in secure content
Cupertino, CA 95014
and threat management. Founded in 1988, Trend Micro
provides individuals and organizations of all sizes with US toll free: 1 +800.228.5651
award-winning security software, hardware and services. Phone: 1 +408.257.1500
With headquarters in Tokyo and operations in more than Fax: 1 +408.257.2003
30 countries, Trend Micro solutions are sold through
corporate and value-added resellers and service providers www.trendmicro.com
worldwide. For additional information and evaluation
copies of Trend Micro products and services, visit our Web
site at www.trendmicro.com.
©2010 by Trend Micro, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Trend Micro, the Trend Micro t-ball logo are trademarks
or registered trademarks of Trend Micro, Incorporated. All other product or company names may be trademarks or
29 2009’S MOST PERSISTENT MALWARE THREATS
registered trademarks of their owners.